William D. Kownack

William D. Kownack, Jr. Burnt Hills - William D. "Bill" Kownack, Jr., age 68, died on Monday, July 15, 2024, after a short illness.
William was born on October 15, 1955, in Schenectady, NY and was the son of the late William D., Sr. and Patricia (Havron) Kownack.
Bill attended Burnt Hills-Ballston Lake High School and began working in restaurants at the age of fourteen as a dishwasher. Bill took readily to restaurant life and worked his way through the ranks until becoming the owner and operator of Castelo's in Schenectady. A talented chef, he owned Castelo's for fifteen years, until its closing in 2012.
Bill truly loved to cook - whether it be in the restaurant or his family, he was at his happiest when he was hosting and feeding people. He was loved by everyone who met him and could make friends with anyone. Bill lived a life of service and was a truly selfless man. Outside of cooking and work, Bill enjoyed music - both playing and listening. He was a talented guitar player and singer and enjoyed his country and rock music. He also loved anything that went fast. Bill enjoyed riding a motorcycle in his younger years and as he got older, took to fixing up his cars. Bill appreciated a good nap on the beach in Cape Cod during yearly vacations and above all else, his family. He was a proud husband, father, and Grandpa Bill and he will be greatly missed by his family.
Bill is survived by his beloved wife, Laurie A. (Murtagh) Kownack; his wonderful children, Elizabeth (Ian) Madigan, Heather Kownack, Jessica (Matthew) Haag, Justin Kownack and Evan (Julianna) Kownack; his adored grandchildren, Jack, Hudson and Isla Haag and Nicole Kownack and his dear siblings, John (Carole) Kownack, Julie (Barry) Simonton, and Christopher (Luz) Kownack.
In addition to his parents, Bill is preceded in death by his sister, Joan Kovacik.
Relatives and friends are invited and may call on Monday, July 22, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m., at Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Road, Ballston Lake, NY.
A Funeral Service will conclude the evening at 7 p.m.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made in Bill's name to Street Soldiers - Schenectady, 153 Nott Terrace, Schenectady, NY 12308, or a food bank of your choice.
Arrangements are entrusted to Townley & Wheeler Funeral Home, 21 Midline Road, Ballston Lake, and they encourage you to view and leave messages on Bill's Book of Memories at www.TownleyWheelerFH.com.